I am sorry for the lack of posts over the last few weeks. James has been busy with basketball, and the girls and I have just been busy. Here is a quick recap: James' team is playing really well despite all of the illness and injuries they have been dealing with. I had a follow up appointment from my eye surgery from last spring, and I have 20/15 vision! We also had a visit from James' brother, sister in law and niece and my Uncle Al and cousin Jeremy. We celebrated Mamaw Ruth's birthday, and our fish, Kevin, died.
Finally, I have interviewed for several jobs with different agencies over the last few months. Thankfully, we are in a place financially where I have been able to be picky about finding a job that would be perfect for all of us. Until last week, I had turned down every job I interviewed for because they just didn't seem like they would be a good fit for our family. The more I learned about other agencies, the more I realized how much I missed my job at Crider Center. A part time Mental Health Specialist position opened up at Crider a few weeks ago, and I interviewed for the position last week. On Friday, I found out that I got the position! I am so excited to be going back to work for Crider!
The girls are still enjoying playing with each other, and Emerson still tells Stella "I want to walk!" Which means that she wants her sister to hold her hand while they walk through the house. It is precious. I have also caught them sitting in the same chair reading together (pictures below.)
Stella Louise decided that she is tired of wet diapers last week. We have been working on potty training for several months, but we have tried to make it a positive experience and haven't forced it on them. I have read several books that emphasize the importance of the right timing, and the child being ready for potty training. Last week, Stella finally decided that she was ready! She started using the potty on her own, and we decided she was ready for big girls panties. She has worn big girl panties all week (except for bedtime) and has done great! We are so proud of her!
Emerson Ann is also very interested in wearing big girls panties, but she hasn't quite figured out the part about going potty on the toilet! She is able to stay dry for a few hours at at time now, so we think she will get the hang of it pretty soon. Emerson is talking like crazy, and is also testing our limits constantly. She is definitely giving us a run for our money, but we know that her behavior is typical for toddlers. She can also be extremely patient, sweet, and loving. We adore both of our girls!
The girls left the living room and were being too quiet. I was concerned about what they were getting into, but this is how I found them. These are the moments when being a parent truly feels like a gift!
They continued to sit together so I could get pictures.
Sitting together in the basement.
They each needed to hold 2 basketballs!
So cute!
I am working on our March for Babies team. Stay tuned for more info!
James may need to go into business!
We celebrated Will's first birthday on Sunday at our super bowl party.
We weren't thrilled with the outcome of the game, but we still had fun!
Mamaw and Stella
Mamaw Ruth and Papaw Marty got the girls gifts to open so they wouldn't feel left out while Will opened his gifts. 
Thanks for the phones, Mamaw and Papaw!
We love our new phones!
Playing with Papaw.
